Answer

What is a preference and can it claw back payments before insolvency?

A preference is paying one creditor ahead of others when insolvency looms; a liquidator can reverse it, especially payments to connected parties like directors. Treat creditors even-handedly as trouble approaches.

2 min read

PreferenceUnfair favouring
ClawbackLiquidator can reverse
ConnectedHigher scrutiny

What counts as a preference

If, when insolvency is near, you pay one creditor in a way that puts them in a better position than they would be in a liquidation, that can be a preference — reversible by a liquidator. Repaying a director’s loan or a guaranteed debt to favour yourself is a classic example.

Staying safe

As trouble approaches, treat creditors even-handedly and take insolvency advice before making significant payments. Document the commercial reason for any payment.

What it means for you

Credicorp lends to your company, not to you personally, and takes no personal guarantee. See business loans or apply online.

Frequently asked questions

Can a liquidator undo payments I made before failing?

Yes, if a payment was a preference — favouring one creditor over others as insolvency loomed. Payments to connected parties like directors face extra scrutiny.

How do I avoid making a preference?

Treat creditors even-handedly as trouble nears, avoid repaying yourself ahead of others, and take insolvency advice before significant payments.

Funding for UK limited companies

Credicorp lends to your company, not to you personally — short-term working capital with no personal guarantee. See what your business could access.